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What is a naturalization applicant?

Author

Emily Carr

Published Mar 13, 2026

What is a naturalization applicant?

Naturalization is the legal process through which a foreign citizen or national can become a U.S. citizen. In order to be naturalized, an applicant must first meet certain criteria to apply for citizenship. Then, the applicant must complete an application, attend an interview, and pass an English and a civics test.

Correspondingly, what are the 6 requirements for naturalization?

All naturalization applicants must meet a number of filing requirements, described below.

  • Age.
  • Residency.
  • Residence and Physical Presence.
  • Good Moral Character.
  • Attachment to the Constitution.
  • Language.
  • U.S. Government and History Knowledge.
  • Oath of Allegiance.

Furthermore, what is the difference between citizenship by registration and naturalization? A United States citizenship certificate is given to someone who derives or acquires citizenship from their US parents, while a certificate of naturalization is given to someone who later becomes a citizen via our naturalization process. USCIS permits foreign nationals who are 18 or older to naturalize as US citizens.

Correspondingly, what does naturalization mean?

lawful permanent resident

Is Naturalization same as citizenship?

United States citizenship grants certain unalienable rights to citizens of this country. A citizenship certificate is given to someone who acquires citizenship through their US parents, which a certificate of naturalization is obtained by someone who becomes a citizen through naturalization.

What are 5 requirements for naturalization?

All naturalization applicants must meet a number of filing requirements, described below.
  • Age.
  • Residency.
  • Residence and Physical Presence.
  • Good Moral Character.
  • Attachment to the Constitution.
  • Language.
  • U.S. Government and History Knowledge.
  • Oath of Allegiance.

What are the requirements for naturalization?

In general, you may qualify for naturalization if you are at least 18 years old and have been a permanent resident for at least 5 years (or 3 years if you are married to a U.S. citizen) and meet all other eligibility requirements.

What's the fastest way to become a US citizen?

The fastest way to get a US green card is through sponsorship from an immediate relative. Unlike other permanent resident visa categories, the IR visa is not subject to quotas or lengthy waiting periods. You are eligible for this visa if you are a spouse, child under 21, or parent of a current US citizen.

How long does Naturalization take in the US?

The average processing time for citizenship (naturalization) applications is 8 months as of May 31, 2020. However, that's just how long it takes USCIS to process Form N-400. The entire naturalization process has several steps and takes an average of 15 months.

Is knowing English a requirement for US citizenship?

Your ability to speak and understand English will be determined by a USCIS officer during your eligibility interview on Form N-400, Application for Naturalization. You must read aloud one out of three sentences correctly to demonstrate an ability to read in English.

How long does it take to become a US citizen in 2019?

It takes around 6 months to become a US citizen from the time you submit your application. However, since there are so many steps to complete to become a US citizen, the US citizenship processing time can be quite long. That is why, it is important to start the process as soon as you are eligible.

What is another name for naturalization?

What is another word for naturalization?
enfranchisementsuffrage
naturalisationUKvoting rights
right to votevoice
saychoice
optionright

How much does it cost to become a US citizen in 2020?

The current fee to become a U.S. citizen through naturalization is $725. As of writing, this is the fee you will have to pay to file your Form N-400.

Can I get a US passport without my naturalization certificate?

Your naturalization certificate serves as proof to obtain a United States passport and other benefits provided to citizens. Without a naturalization certificate, you are unable to get a passport.

What does a certificate of naturalization look like?

The Certificate of Naturalization contains information identifying the person and confirming his or her U.S. citizenship through naturalization. Specifically, the certificate contains: Certificate number (generally a red 6- to 8-digit alpha numeric number) Date of issuance (date the holder became a U.S. citizen)

How do I apply for naturalization as a US citizen?

Apply for U.S. citizenship by submitting Form N-400, Application for Naturalization. This form is available to file online. There are exceptions and modifications to the naturalization requirements that are available to those who qualify. USCIS also provides accommodations for individuals with disabilities.

Is a certificate of naturalization?

The Certificate of Naturalization contains certain required information identifying the person and confirming his or her U.S. citizenship through naturalization. Specifically, the Certificate of Naturalization contains: USCIS registration number (A-number);

How much does it cost to get a certificate of naturalization?

$1,170. (This fee applies even if you are filing as an adopted child or as a child of a veteran or member of the U.S. armed forces.) You may pay the fee with a money order, personal check, or cashier's check.

Does a certificate of naturalization expire?

Unlike Permanent Resident cards, Certificates of Citizenship and Certificates of Naturalization do not expire. Upon completion of the final action(s), the parent(s) may apply for a Certificate of Citizenship and/or apply for a U.S. passport to obtain evidence of the child's U.S. citizenship.

Can a naturalized US citizen have dual citizenship?

In fact, it is entirely possible for naturalized U.S. citizens to retain citizenship in another country, or for a native-born American to claim citizenship in a second country. Yet dual citizenship has been specifically sanctioned by the United States Supreme Court.